Morocco launches inclusive university for deaf and hearing students
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Morocco established a new university integrating deaf and hard of hearing students with their hearing peers in the same classrooms.
The institution aims to reshape human capital development and scientific excellence, combining clinical treatments with technological and professional training. The university, named للا أسماء (Lalla Asmaa University), will accommodate around 3500 students with a completely free course of study in audiology, ranging from vocational training to master’s degrees. The university includes schools specializing in audiology, sign language, and inclusive technologies.
It will also offer specialized training for ear, nose, and throat surgeons in cochlear implant surgery. The university has formed international partnerships with institutions in Paris, Chicago, Leuven, and Montpellier to facilitate research and share expertise in areas like gene therapy for deafness and cochlear implants. Seven scientific and applied laboratories support innovation within the campus, including one developing artificial intelligence and robotics capable of communicating in sign language.
The university plans to open its doors to students from across Morocco and internationally by 2027, preparing professionals in hospitality, transport, banking, and sports facilities to communicate with deaf and hard of hearing visitors in anticipation of co-hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal.
